Rotary International is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Rushmore Rotary is a club composed of inspired individuals who translate their passions into relevant social causes to change lives in communities.

While it was unfortunate, it sure seems like it was the right call to cancel the Gala at Mount Rushmore. Now, so much more has transpired since that time. We hope you are all staying healthy and safe. We are so very grateful for all the time and effort that went into planning the Gala – thanks to everyone from Rotary who was part of that! We also appreciate very much how the sponsors and intended guests were open to still giving their gifts even after the event was cancelled. It sounds like the event will still raise around $31,000! That’s similar to what the event has made on average over the past few years – that is terrific!

As you many know, the funds are designated to endowment for the Child Advocacy Center, our program where we provide forensic interviews and support for children who are alleged victims, most often of sexual abuse, but sometimes severe physical abuse. Over 50% of the funding for the Child Advocacy Center has to come from charitable support, so building the endowment funding to help run the program is so very critical. In 2019 we provided forensic interviews for 341 children.You are all part of a wonderful service club – and part of a terrific group of people in your Rapid City Rushmore Chapter.

Thank-you for your many acts of Service Above Self, and for your partnership in our work!

We recently learned that the Hope Center is in need of socks. The Community Action Committee is taking action! The next time you are getting groceries, please buy a package (or 2 or 3) of white crew socks. Buy the size that you would buy if buying them for yourself. Bring them to the southside Walmart on Saturday, May 2 at 11:00. We will be there in the parking lot to collect them. We will then deliver them to the Hope Center. If you are unavailable to bring them to Walmart on May 2, just let Todd know and we will figure something else out. Linda Peterson mentioned they can also use dry laundry detergent.

GOLF COMMITTEE - Jeff Meyers reported that the date for the BHCH Golf Fundraiser is fluid at this point -- July 27, 2020 at Arrowhead. The committee is meeting regularly and will keep everyone updated as they work with BHCH Executive Director and Arrowhead.

SOCIAL COMMITEE - Please join us on Tuesday May 5th for a Cinco de Mayo happy hour celebration. We will be having cocktails, playing Jack Box via zoom, enjoying each other’s company & celebrating Darla’s birthday.

The celebration will start at 5:05 on 5/5 via Zoom. We will get onto Jack Box from Zoom., however you will need to log onto Jack Box from your other device to get started.You will need two devices to play the game. (Cell phone & lap top or PC. Can also be done on a smart TV) I would suggest loading zoom on the bigger screen so you can use your mobile device for Jack box. It is also suggested that you have an ample supply of cocktails & snacks! Further instructions were emailed to all members. Tutorial on Jackbox can be found at: https://www.howtogeek.com/666748/how-to-play-jackbox-on-zoom/

YOUTH ADVOCACY -- 4 Way Test Winners

The Rushmore Rotary Club supports the learners of Rapid City High School throughout the year, the essay contest being just one of many initiatives. Binder says, “The Rushmore Rotary Club’s support of Rapid City High School is much more than just awards; they offer an opportunity to extend community to our learners. We are grateful for their support.” This year’s Rushmore Rotary Club’s Four-Way Test Essay Contest winners are: Jaiven B., Angelo R., Kaylee W., and Brook M. A special thank you to fellow Rotarians, Cindy Bailie and Terry Davis who served as judges for the contest.

INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS

Pat gave an update on where International Project dollars have helped this year: Scholarship and family care packages for St. Jude's student(s), Shelter Box Projects, Tractors for Africa, and Soles for Souls (local). See the Thank you note and video from St. Judes School during the Covid pandemic.

Dear Rushmore Rotary

I am so overwhelmed by the generosity, love and unity of our St Jude’s community. In just over 48 hours you have helped SO MUCH to cover the cost of our COVID-19 Family Care Packages. We might even be able to allocate extra packs to students who are the most in need in a few weeks’ time.

Your support has made all of this possible and we can’t quite put into words just how thankful we are… So, here’s a little video of how you’ve made myself and all the St Jude’s staff feel. I hope it makes you smile!

Keep your eyes peeled over the coming days as our staff unite to assemble and deliver 2,000 packages to students, interns and their families!

Congratulations to Rushmore Rotary's 6th grade FourWay Test essay winners from North Middle School: 1st place - Yolanda Usera; 2nd Place - Grace Silk, 3rd Place - Meleah Saucerman. The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do is a test used by Rotarians world-wide as a moral code for personal and business relationships, and recited at meetings. The test can be applied to almost any aspect of life. The test was scripted by Herbert J. Taylor and later adopted by Rotary International. Students are sponsored by local Rotary Clubs and top essarys are submitted to the District. Thank you to Colby Christenson from Rapid City Area Schools for running the contest for us.

District 5610 announced the following DISTRICT Winners. Congratulations and thank you to the Clubs involved in sponsoring students.

Molly Barari from Vitalant updated us during our virtual Rotary meeting concerning the need for blood, plasma and platelet donations during the COVID19 pandemic. She reminded us that donors are a vital link in this experience and that donations save lives. Over 90% of us will need blood before the age of 72. Transfusions occur every 2 seconds in the United States. Blood donations are also used for therapy and research. Molly encouraged us to make an appointment using their website: https://www.vitalant.org/Home.aspx. They are open 7 days a week.